Shifting and recharging of emotional states with word sequencing

ABSTRACT

The shifting and recharging of an emotional state with word sequencing is disclosed. A selection of a first word sequence set is received from the user. The word sequence set is defined by a mood recharging characteristic value, and includes a plurality of words each with at least one corresponding definition. A first one of the plurality of words in the selected first word sequence set is displayed. Then, a first one of the at least one corresponding definition of the first one of the plurality of words in the first word sequence set is displayed while the first one of the plurality of words remains displayed. The definition remains displayed for a time duration corresponding to a predefined cadence rate value. The user is prompted with a question related to the mood recharging characteristic value and associated with the first word sequence set.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

Not Applicable

STATEMENT RE: FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND

1. Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to mood improvement techniques, and moreparticularly, to personalized word sequencing methods and systems inaccessible devices for shifting and recharging emotional states.

2. Related Art

Contemporary life in all but the most secluded places far fromcivilization tends to be a chaotic and turbulent experience that placesa tremendous amount of stress and anxiety on the individual. Althoughthe harm to emotional well-being that results from major calamities andstressors such as natural disasters, recessions, terrorism, crime, andthe like cannot be marginalized, daily demands of the workplace and ofthe home are significant sources of emotional unrest. For instance,workers are universally under pressure to handle increasing workloadswith fewer resources, with ever-decreasing time away from the job toadequately decompress and recharge one's emotions. The problem ofoccupational stress can be exacerbated by toxic work environments,bullying and harassment, and other inter-personal conflicts withcolleagues at various levels. Further, upon leaving work at the end ofthe day, there may be additional stressors such as family careobligations and tedious household tasks. What should otherwise be arelaxing experience in watching television programs or consuming mediasuch as newspapers and magazines may be agitating and demoralizing atthe same time because of all of the negativity expressed therein.Hurtful and egregious comments are not limited to the media, and cancome from anyone within an individual's sphere of influence includingfamily, friends, and acquaintances.

What the foregoing amounts to, is a constant, never-ending accumulationof emotional turmoil leading to confusion, disappointment, fear, andunhappiness, the likes of which have a debilitating effect on thehomeostasis of humankind. Well understood and documented in the medicalliterature, emotional unrest induced by acute stressors activatesneuronal communications between the heart and the brain. The heart isnow considered by many scientists and neurocardiologists to be theprimary receptive organ of incoming stressors. The biochemical reactionsthat follow as a result of incoming stressors may result in the classic“fight or flight” systemic reaction experienced by the body. Thisreaction causes significant changes in heart rate variability, bloodpressure, breathing patterns, hormonal secretions, and sleep patternsaffecting every organ system in the body. Acute and chronic emotionalunrest suppresses the immune system, rendering an individual moresusceptible to common diseases. Examples of unhealthy states associatedwith emotional unrest are gastrointestinal problems, headache syndromesand assorted back pain syndromes. Significant suppression of the immunesystem will hinder repair of mutated DNA, which has been linked to thedevelopment of cancer.

Aside from the aforementioned somatic effects, emotional unrest is knownto be the cause of depression, alcoholism and other substance abuse, andsuicide, among many others. It is also known to trigger the onset ofschizophrenia, manic episodes, and various psychotic disorders.

Unfortunately, due to the lack of time, energy, and escalatinghealthcare costs, many individuals suffering under the burdens ofemotional unrest neglect to seek assistance. In many cases, theindividual is too embarrassed or ashamed due to the instilled beliefthat one is not mentally strong or resilient enough to deal with thestress, and continues to suffer in silence. To the extent professionalhelp is sought, psychiatry and its related disciplines are increasinglyrelying upon psychopharmacology to manage emotional unrest. Themechanism-of-action of these drugs is not well understood and iscurrently being challenged. Problematically, the ineffectiveness ofthese drugs as reported by researchers, coupled with the seriouswarnings of possible suicidal and homicidal ideation, raises questionsof sustainability.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for an affordable, mobile,non-drug, rapid delivery modality to impact emotional turmoil. There isa need in the art for systems and methods that target emotionalconditions, and are readily accessible for individuals engaged in busylifestyles.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, a methodfor shifting and recharging an emotional state of a user with wordsequencing is contemplated. With the disclosed method, it is possible to“recharge” the user's emotions as a first step toward impactingemotional unrest. The method may be embodied as computer ordata-processor-executed instructions that may be run on a mobile deviceand is therefore readily accessible by the user anywhere. The wordsequencing may be presented on a data processing apparatus with adisplay and an input.

The method may include a step of receiving a selection of a first wordsequence set from the user through the input of the data processingapparatus. The word sequence set may be defined by a mood rechargingcharacteristic value. Additionally, the first word sequence set mayinclude a plurality of words each with at least one correspondingdefinition. The method may continue with generating a first one of theplurality of words in the selected first word sequence set on thedisplay. The first one of the plurality of words may be displayed with afirst predefined typeface. The method may also include generating on thedisplay a first one of the at least one corresponding definition of thefirst one of the plurality of words in the first word sequence set. Thedefinition may be displayed with a second predefined typeface, while thefirst one of the plurality of words remains generated on the display.The definition may remain displayed for a time duration corresponding toa predefined cadence rate value.

Following these two steps, the method may include prompting the userwith a question related to the mood recharging characteristic value. Thequestion may also be associated with the first word sequence set.

The present disclosure will be best understood by reference to thefollowing detailed description when read in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the various embodimentsdisclosed herein will be better understood with respect to the followingdescription and drawings:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary environment in whichvarious embodiments of the present invention may be implemented,including a data processing apparatus;

FIG. 2A is an example user interface showing an introductory screen;

FIG. 2B is an example user interface showing a login screen;

FIG. 2C is an example user interface showing a password recovery screen;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of a method forshifting and recharging an emotional state of a user with wordsequencing;

FIG. 4 is an example user interface showing a word sequence setselection screen;

FIG. 5 is a data structure diagram of word sequence sets in accordancewith one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6A-6E show an example user interface variously displaying a worddisplay screen, a first word and definition combination display screen,and a second word and definition combination display screen, a thirdword and definition combination screen, and a fourth word and definitioncombination screen;

FIG. 7 is an example user interface showing the word and definitioncombination display screen with a cadence change overlay and a wordsequence overlay;

FIG. 8A-8B shows an example user interface with a question displayscreen and a confirmation screen;

FIG. 9A-9B shows an example user interface with a sharing screen, and aninput screen;

FIG. 10 shows an example user interface with a final confirmationscreen;

FIG. 11 shows an example user interface with a purchase or store screen;and

FIG. 12 shows an example user interface with a word sequence setdescription screen.

Common reference numerals are used throughout the drawings and thedetailed description to indicate the same elements.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below in connection with the appendeddrawings is intended as a description of the presently contemplatedembodiments of methods and systems for shifting and recharging anemotional state of a user. This description is not intended to representthe only form in which the disclosed invention may be developed orutilized. The description sets forth the functions and features inconnection with the illustrated embodiments. It is to be understood,however, that the same or equivalent functions may be accomplished bydifferent embodiments that are also intended to be encompassed withinthe scope of the present disclosure. It is further understood that theuse of relational terms such as first and second and the like are usedsolely to distinguish one from another entity without necessarilyrequiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between suchentities.

Generally, the methods for shifting and recharging emotional statesrelies upon word sequencing techniques, in which the user is shown aseries of words to affect emotional changes. In particular, thepresently contemplated methods target emotions and help “shift andrecharge” the user's emotions. While these methodologies are notintended to provide an escape from negative emotion, it is contemplatedto utilize such negative emotion as a pathway to its positivecounterpart, creating a better mood for the user. Such shifts in moodare immediate, and are envisioned to be sustainable with repeated use.

With reference to the block diagram of FIG. 1, one exemplary environment10 in which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented isillustrated. As will be described in further detail, much of theinteraction for mood shifting and recharging purposes is between a user12 and a data processing apparatus 14. However, there are peripheralcomponents that play different roles to provide additionalfunctionality. It is contemplated that the data processing apparatus 14is a mobile data communications device such as a smart phone capable ofrunning software programs, variously referred to in the art asapplications, apps, and so forth. Accordingly, at minimum, the dataprocessing apparatus 14 includes a processor 16 that executes a seriesof preprogrammed instructions that generate certain outputs in responseto inputs. These instructions are understood to embody a series of stepsthat comprise one method for shifting and recharging the emotional stateof the user 12. These instructions may be stored in an on-board memory18 connected to the processor 16.

There are several input and output devices typically included in amobile data communications device. For instance, there is a display 20that generates a graphical output from the processor 16. Such outputsare understood to be in response to the execution of the aforementionedpreprogrammed instructions. The display 20 is a color liquid crystaldisplay (LCD) device comprised of a plurality of rows and columns ofindividually activatable pixels.

Since the exemplary data processing apparatus 14 is a smart phone, anaudio output device 22 is also contemplated. The audio output device 22may include a converter that translates a stream of data output by theprocessor 16 into an audio signal. Additionally, the audio output device22 may include a transducer that produces sound in response to the audiosignal. The execution of the instructions may be invoked or modified viainputs from the user 12 through an input device 24.

Many conventional smart phones utilize a touch screen that is overlaidon the display 20, and taps and other well-known touch inputs atspecific locations along the input device 24 corresponding to differentpositions of graphical user interface elements shown on the display 20may activate functionality associated therewith. One possible graphicaluser interface is the virtual keyboard, which is a graphical arrangementof keys for alphanumeric characters, and tapping on a portion of thescreen is operative to select or enter that character.

Being a mobile communications device, the data processing apparatus 14is also understood to include a communications module 26 that isconnected to an antenna 28 as well as the processor 16. As will berecognized by those having ordinary skill in the art, the communicationsmodule 26 may include an analog/digital converter circuit that, intransmit operations, converts a data stream from the processor 16 to ananalog signal. A radio frequency (RF) carrier signal is then applied tothe analog signal, amplified, and passed to the antenna 28, whichtransduces the electrical signal to an electromagnetic radio frequencysignal that propagates through the air. The opposite occurs on thereceive end with another wireless communications module 30, in which theelectromagnetic radio frequency signal 32 passed from an antenna 34 istransduced to an electrical signal and then amplified. The RF carriersignal is removed, and the resulting analog signal is converted to adigital data stream by a digital/analog converter circuit and is passedto another module for further processing. Both of the illustratedwireless communications modules 26, 30 are understood to be capable ofbi-directional communications.

In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, through theaforementioned wireless data communications link a connection to theInternet 36 can be established from the data processing apparatus 14. Aswill be described more fully below, the connection to the Internet 36 isutilized to link the data processing apparatus 14 to various serversalso connected to the Internet 36 and provide additional functionalityto the presently disclosed method for shifting and recharging theemotional state of the user 12. For these purposes, standard TCP/IP(transmission control protocol/Internet protocol) transport modalitiesmay be used, along with higher level communications utilizing HTTP(Hyper Text Transfer Protocol) as well as any other suitableinter-process communications modality. The wireless data communicationslink may be of a relatively short distance as would be the case withWiFi/802.11x, or of further distances and greater coverage area as wouldbe the case with cellular data networks. A variety of standards exist,including GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), WCDMA (WidebandCode Division Multiple Access) and so forth. Any type of wirelesscommunications modality may be utilized to establish the datacommunications link to the Internet 36, though it is understood thatboth the wireless communications module 30 of the data processingapparatus 14 and the remote wireless communications module 30 utilizethe same standards to ensure compatibility.

It is to be understood that the foregoing details pertaining to the dataprocessing apparatus 14 and the components part of the communicationslink to the Internet 36 are presented by way of example only and not oflimitation. Furthermore, it is to be understood that only thosecomponents that are pertinent to the following discussion of thepresently contemplated method and system for enhancing emotional stateare shown. Those having ordinary skill in the art will recognize thattypical mobile communications devices include many other components thathave not been mentioned, and such omissions are not understood to belimiting.

As indicated above, one embodiment of the present disclosurecontemplates the system and method for shifting and recharging theemotional state of the user 12 being implemented as a softwareapplication that runs on the data processing apparatus 14, and FIG. 2Aand FIG. 2B are an exemplary user interface 38 thereof. The dataprocessing apparatus 14 is understood to run an operating system thatcontrols the aforementioned input and output devices, as well as toprovide a unified user interface. One of the unified elements is a topbar 40 with a wireless communication link strength icon 42, a clock 44,and a battery power indicator icon 46. The foregoing is presented by wayof example only, and other operating systems of different dataprocessing apparatuses 14 may utilize different graphical userinterfaces.

Specifically, the example screen shown in FIG. 2A is an introductoryscreen 49 that is displayed upon invoking the software application.Various graphics such as logos 48 may be generated on the user interface38, along with some introductory text 50. The user 12 may select a startbutton 52 to continue.

Personalization of the various functions and features of the softwareapplication is contemplated. In some cases, the identity information maybe stored locally on the data processing apparatus 14, but in othersthis data may be stored remotely. With reference again to the blockdiagram of FIG. 1, one of the remote systems connected to the Internet36 is an application support system 54, on which personal account datamay be stored. More particularly, there may a server computer system 56connected to a database 58, though this is by way of example and anyother implementation of the application support system 54 may beutilized. Referring back to FIG. 2A, to load the various personalizationvariables, a login function may be invoked via a login button 63.

Now referring to FIG. 2B, invoking the login button 63 on theintroductory screen 49 shown in FIG. 2A results in a login screen 59being generated in the user interface 38. It is also possible to returnto the introductory screen 49 by activating a back button 51. Whetherthe personal account data is stored on the data processing apparatus 14or on the application support system 54, one of the ways in which theaccount is accessed is by supplying an email address in an input box 60therefor, and a password similarly in an input box 62 therefor. Upon theuser 12 entering the email address and password, a login button 63 maybe invoked to complete the account login process. If the user hasforgotten the correct password, it may be recovered by selecting apassword recovery link 64. This results in a password recovery screen 66being generated in the user interface 38 as shown in FIG. 2C. The emailwith which the account was created can be entered in another email inputbox 68, and a temporary password along with instructions on resettingthe password may be sent thereto upon invoking a send button 70. Tocancel the password reset process, a return/login button 72 may beinvoked to return to the login screen 59 shown in FIG. 2B.

However, referring additionally to the block diagram of FIG. 1, it isunderstood that an account established on a social networking servicesite 74 may also be utilized to access the personal account data. One ofthe most popular social networking services is Facebook, which can beaccessed via a first social networking site login button 76 a, whileTwitter is another, and can be accessed via a second social networkingsite login button 76 b. As will be recognized by those having ordinaryskill in the art, the social network service site 74 maintains anextensive volume of user information, and can be utilized as credentialsto access other services and data, including the presently contemplatedapplication support system 54 and the personal account data storedthereon.

With reference to the flowchart of FIG. 3, the method may begin with astep 300 of receiving a selection of a first word sequence set. In theembodiment of the present disclosure implemented as a softwareapplication running on the data processing apparatus 14, this selectionmay be received via a word sequence set selection screen 78 shown inFIG. 4. More particularly, the word sequence set selection screen 78includes a listing 80 of available word sequence sets stored on the dataprocessing apparatus 14 each represented as a list element 82. Each listelement 82 is delineated with a word sequence set descriptor 79. Thenext step in the method may be initiated upon a user activation of abegin button 83.

Generally, a word sequence set is understood to be a collection of wordseach having one or more corresponding definitions. The data structurediagram of FIG. 5 illustrates one exemplary embodiment of a first wordsequence set 84, which may be defined by a mood rechargingcharacteristic value 86. This may be a short descriptor that brieflysets forth the mood shifting and recharging objective of the wordsequence set 84, and may be utilized for the word sequence setdescriptor 150 in the listing 80 discussed above. One example moodrecharging characteristic value 86 may be “Happiness.” The first wordsequence set 84 includes multiple words 88, including a first word 88 a,and a second word 88 b. It will be recognized that the word sequence set84 may include additional words 88, though in the example there are onlytwo. The mood recharging characteristic value 86 is understood to definethe overall theme or characteristic that is shared amongst the pluralityof words 88.

By way of example, the first word 88 a may be “Satisfied” and the secondword 88 b may be “Pleased,” both of which are related to the “Happiness”mood recharging characteristic value 86. There may be additional wordsequence sets 84 with a corresponding mood recharging characteristicvalue 86 such as “Confidence” and “Energy,” that are understood toinclude words 88 that fit the respective themes. Each word in the wordsequence set 84, in turn, has at least one corresponding definition 90.For example, the first word 88 a may have a first definition 90-1 a witha value of “having my wishes fulfilled,” a second definition 90-1 b witha value of “my heart is filled with contentment and a deep sense ofpride,” and a third definition 90-1 c with a value of “feeling assuranceand appreciation for what I am giving.” For the second word 88 b, theremay be a first definition 90-2 a with a value of “feeling a deep senseof gratification,” and a second definition 90-2 b with a value of“delighted and smiling about the outcome of things.” As with thevariable number of words 88 in the word sequence set 84, there may be avariable number of definitions 90 for each word 88.

The definition 90 for a given word 88 is not a “definition” in thestrictest sense, but rather, a related concept that could be associatedwith the word 88. Along these lines, although the word 88 is a single,standalone word in the illustrated example, it may also be a shortphrase or multiple words. The combination of the word 88 with thedefinitions 90 is contemplated to stimulate emotional activity relatingto the subjects thereof, and influence thought in a manner thatrecharges the emotions of the user 12. Therefore, possible envisioneduses for the application include boosting confidence of the user 12before a romantic date, a business meeting, or an exam and providingencouragement before a challenging situation. Additionally, when theuser 12 needs emotional recharging, including but not limited toincreased energy, and inspiration or encouragement, the application canbe initiated. It will be appreciated that an infinite number of thewords 88 and the corresponding definitions 90 may be provided to furthertailor the mood improvement objectives of the application to anever-increasing number of users 12. The example words 88 and definitions90 presented herein are not intended to be limiting, and any othersuitable content may be utilized.

The first word sequence set 84 is understood to be stored on the dataprocessing apparatus 14. It is also contemplated, however, that periodicupdates may be made to the word sequence sets 84 and made available onthe application support system 54. Accordingly, prior to proceeding tothe next step in the method, the application support system 54 may bequeried to determine whether any updates are available. The possibletype of updates may include additions, replacements, or deletions of anyone of the definitions 90, as well as additions and deletions of any oneof the words 88. If any exist, those updates are downloaded applied tothe locally stored copy of the word sequence set 84. In cases where theupdate revises one of the definitions 90, it may be so specified withinthe update that it is to replace the existing one with the updated one.Similarly, additional definitions 90 to a particular one of the words 88may also be specified as adding to, rather than replacing, an existingone. Updates to the words 88 are understood to be processed in a similarmanner. Those having ordinary skill in the art will appreciate severaldifferent update methodologies that may be used to implement theforegoing features.

Returning to the flowchart of FIG. 3, the method continues with a step302 of generating a first one of the words 88 on the display 20 of thedata processing apparatus 14. An example of how this may be implementedin the application is shown in FIG. 6A, which depicts a word displayscreen 94. Per the foregoing example of the first word sequence set 84,the first word 88 a, “Satisfied” is generated on the word display screen94. The first word 88 a is generated with a first predeterminedtypeface, which may be defined by either a typeface size, typefacestyle, or typeface enhancement such as underline, bold, italic, and soforth. Although the example shows the first word 88 a being generated onthe word display screen 94, the order of displaying the words 88 may berandomized, and may begin with any one of the other words in the wordsequence set 84. Additionally, various transition effects involving theintroduction of the first word 88 a on to the word display screen 94 arepossible.

As indicated above, the step 302 can be initiated based upon user inputfrom the word sequence set selection screen 78, and in particular by,invoking the begin button 83 generated thereon. However, it is alsocontemplated that the step 302 can be initiated by other modalities notreliant on input from the user 12. In one embodiment, it is possible toset a time and/or date notification within the application, such thatwhen the actual time and/or date matches that of the set notification,the application starts and proceeds to the step 302 of generating thefirst one of the words. This may be particularly useful for those users12 that are preparing for a business meeting or an exam that is at a settime, and the notification is set to a time or date before thatscheduled event. As such, the user 12 can be automatically notified.Another embodiment contemplates a similar initiation modality, bututilizes an on-board GPS (global positioning system) receiver 27instead. It will be recognized by those having ordinary skill in the artthat the GPS receiver 27 reports the actual coordinates of the locationin which the data processing apparatus 14 is disposed. Thus, theapplication may be set to initiate the step 302 when the reportedcoordinates are proximal to that of a predefined location. This may alsobe referred to as a geographic notification. For example, the predefinedlocation may be set to a public venue in which the user 12 is scheduledto speak. When the user 12 approaches that venue, positive emotionalencouragement may be provided to help overcome fears of public speakingvia the contemplated mood shifting and recharging methods implemented inthe application. As utilized herein, the term notification may refer toany modality by which the user 12 is informed of a triggering condition,including push notifications, alarms, alerts, and any other suitablemodalities available through the data processing apparatus 14. Alongthese lines, unique tones, sounds, or other audio may also be generatedconcurrently with the notifications.

Next, the method proceeds to a step 304 of generating on the display afirst one of the corresponding definitions 90 for the selected ordisplayed word in step 302, e.g., the first word 88 a. In accordancewith one embodiment of the present disclosure, this occurs in a firstword and definition combination display screen 96 a as shown in FIG. 6B,and the display of the first word 88 a thereon is maintained. In otherwords, the first definition 90-1 a is generated on the display 20 whilethe first word 88 a remains generated on the same. The particulardefinition 90 that is shown in conjunction with the first word 88 a maybe randomized, and any other definition 90 corresponding to the firstword 88 a may be generated instead. The display of the definition 90 iscontemplated to be with a second predetermined typeface that has itsspecific typeface size, typeface style, or typeface enhancement. Any oneof these characteristics may be varied from that of the firstpredetermined typeface mentioned above in relation to the display of theword 88. In the illustrated example, the definition 90 is generated witha smaller typeface size than that of the corresponding word 88. However,this is by way of example only and not of limitation, and any othersuitable visual effects may be made, or may be kept the same, dependingon the embodiment.

The first definition 90-1 a remains displayed for a time duration thatcorresponds to a predefined cadence rate value. Preferably, thoughoptionally, the time duration is understood to be approximately fiveseconds, though it can be as short as three seconds. The upper limit ofthe time duration is understood to be ten seconds, though this is by wayof example only. Any other upper limit may be substituted withoutdeparting from the scope of the present disclosure. The cadence ratevalue, and hence the time duration, can be modified by the user. As bestshown in FIG. 7, a cadence change overlay 100 is generated in responseto any touch input while either word display screen 94 or the word anddefinition combination display screen 96 is being presented in the userinterface 38. More particularly, the cadence change overlay 100 includesa sliding button 102 that can be moved along a cadence bar 104.Depending on the specifics of the implementation, the far right positionof the sliding button 102 along the cadence bar 104 may represent thefastest cadence, i.e., the lowest delay (three seconds), while the farleft position of the sliding button along the cadence bar 104 mayrepresent the slowest cadence, i.e., the highest delay (ten seconds).Notwithstanding the foregoing example, other user interface elementsthrough which variables can set may be substituted.

Another feature that is invoked upon providing a touch input while theword display screen 94 or the word and definition combination displayscreen 96 is being presented on the user interface 38 is a progressoverlay 103 including a progress bar 105. Although only a singleword-definition shift and recharge sequence has been illustrated above,according to some embodiments, a complete shift and recharge sequencemay be comprised of multiple words 88 and multiple definitions 90 beingpresented to the user 12. In this regard, the progress bar 105 isunderstood to record the progress of a started shift and rechargesequence and present a visual representation thereof having a completedportion 105 a and an uncompleted portion 105 b that has a differentappearance than the completed portion 105 a. Preferably, the progressthrough a shift and recharge sequence is not recorded from one instanceof the application to another, but other embodiments do contemplate itspossibility. Furthermore, the user 12 is expected to progress throughthe shift and recharge sequence from start to finish without skipping,and so the progress bar 105 may not accept any user input that shiftsthe order or timing of the word display screen 94 and/or the word anddefinition combination display screen 96. There are alternativeembodiments, however, where such shifts are possible.

Following the step 304 discussed above, the execution of the method maydiverge to different branch steps. One of these is a step 310 ofgenerating a second one of the definitions, e.g., the second definition90-1 b for the first word 88 a, on the display 20. An example is shownin FIG. 6C, which shows the user interface 38 displaying a second wordand definition combination display screen 96 b. Like the firstdefinition 90-1 a discussed above, the display of the second definition90-1 b is contemplated to be with the second predetermined typeface, andremains displayed for the same time duration. Prior to displaying thesecond definition 90-1 b, the first definition 90-1 a is cleared fromthe second word and definition combination display screen 96 b. Asindicated above, each word 88 may have a variable number of definitions90. In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, threedefinitions 90 may be presented for each word 88, though this may bevaried.

After presenting the selected definitions 90 for the first word 88 a,instead of presenting another definition for the same word, the methodmay proceed to generate a different, second word 88 b and thecorresponding definitions therefor. More particularly, this may involvea step 320 of clearing the display of the first word 88 a. Withreference to a third example word and definition combination displayscreen 96 c shown in FIG. 6D, this clearing step may be followed by astep 322 of generating a second one of the words 88, i.e., the secondword 88 b, on the display 20 of the data processing apparatus 14.Continuing with the foregoing example, the second word 88 b is“Pleased.” Again, the second word 88 b is generated with the firstpredetermined typeface.

Thereafter, the method may continue with a step 324 of generating afirst one of the definitions 90 of the second word 88 b, that is, thefirst definition 90-2 a. This, by way of example, is “feeling a deepsense of gratification” for the second word 88 b “Pleased.” Like theother presentations of the definition 90, the first definition 90-2 a isgenerated in the second predetermined typeface, and only for a limitedperiod as governed by the time duration corresponding to the cadencerate value.

Once the time duration for displaying the first definition 90-2 a haselapsed, the method may proceed to a step 326 of generating a seconddefinition 90-2 b for the second word 88 b. This is understood to begenerated on a fourth word and definition combination display screen 96d shown in FIG. 6E. According to the illustrated example, the seconddefinition 90-2 b is “delighted and smiling about the outcome ofthings.” Similar to the first definition 90-2 a, the 90-2 b is generatedwith the second predetermined typeface.

Different words 88 and corresponding definitions 90 may thus begenerated on the display 20 in sequence. In one embodiment of thepresent disclosure, the number of words 88 generated and the number ofcorresponding definitions 90 generated is predefined, for example, sixwords, three definitions each, though which of the specific words 88 anddefinitions 90 are to be presented may be randomized at the time ofrunning the application. The above-described steps in the method forshifting and recharging the emotional state of the user 12 is repeatedfor those additional words 88 and definitions 90 of the selected wordsequence set 84.

Following the completion of the word-definition display sequence,whether following step 304, step 310, or step 326, the method mayproceed to a step 330 of prompting the user 12 with a question relatedto the mood recharging characteristic value 86 of the first wordsequence set 84. Referring back to the data structure diagram of FIG. 5,the word sequence set 84 also includes a question 106, which may ask,for example “What would make you happy today?” With reference to theexample user interface 38 shown in FIG. 8A, the question 106 may bepresented in a question display screen 108. Displayed within thequestion display screen 108 is the question 106, as well as a text inputbox 110.

The purpose of the question 106 is envisioned to sustain the shift andrecharge of the mood of the user 12 following the mostly passivereception of the word-definition sequence in previous steps. Theassociations created as a result of the generated sequence of the word88 and the definition 90 is further reinforced by the user 12 withquestion 106, creating a personal link, association, or connection,therefore creating sustainability of the mood shift and recharge. Due tothe open-ended, probing nature of the question 106, they may also bereferred to as insightful questions. Although a single question 106 isshown associated with the word sequence set 84, there may be additionalones, and may be selected at random in relation to the step 330. Inaddition, there may be a second question 107 that can be presented tothe user 12 independent of the step 330, to further advance thesustainability of the mood shift and recharge. This question may notnecessarily relate to the specific word 88 that has been presented, butrelate overall to the word sequence set 84. The aforementionedprocedures of updating the various components of the word sequence set84 are understood to be applicable to the question 106 as well.

The method continues with an optional step 332 of receiving auser-supplied answer to the question 106. The answer is provided by theuser 12 via the text input box 110, and upon completion, the next stepin the process may be invoked by pressing a continue button 112. Theanswer to the question 106 is not retained in various embodiments,though it is possible to do so if desired or warranted. With referenceto FIG. 8B, the user 12 is warned of the fact that the answer to thequestion 106 is not retained or otherwise saved in a confirmation screen111. However, if desired for journal keeping purposes, the answer may becopied to the system clipboard by invoking a copy button 114. Otherwise,the next step in the application is invoked by a continue button 116.

One embodiment contemplates a sharing functionality by which the user 12can announce to friends and acquaintances on various social networkingsites 74 that a word sequence set has been completed. As best shown inthe exemplary user interface 38 shown in FIG. 9, there is a sharingscreen 118 with a first button 120 to invoke sharing functions inrelation to a first social networking site, a second button 122 toinvoke sharing functions in relation a second social networking site,and a third button 124 to invoke e-mail sharing functions. Uponselecting one of these first, second or third buttons 120, 122, 124, acorresponding input screen particular to that sharing feature may begenerated in the user interface 38 to accept input or confirm a defaultmessage. Those having ordinary skill in the art will recognize thenumerous possible implementations of the input screen.

The sharing step may be skipped, and this option is possible by invokinga skip button 128. Whether the completion message is shared or not,however, execution proceeds to a final confirmation screen 130 shown inFIG. 10. Therein the mood recharging characteristic value 86 ismentioned to identify the particular word sequence set 84 that the user12 has completed. Additionally, there is a congratulatory message 132.

Referring back to the word sequence set selection screen 78 of FIG. 4,it is understood that the listing 80 includes the word sequence sets 84stored on the data processing apparatus 14. According to variousembodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to purchaseadditional word sequence sets 84 provided by the application supportsystem 54. As shown in the block diagram of FIG. 1, the provider of thedata processing apparatus 14 typically maintains an applicationdistribution system 134 with a catalog of available software programsfor download. Some of the programs are sold, so there may be a paymentprocessing system 136. In order to purchase additional word sequencesets 84, the request may be first routed through the third-partyapplication distribution system 134. The payment may be remitted fromthe data processing apparatus 14 to the payment processing system 136,and upon successful payment/authorization, directs the applicationserver system 54 to transmit the purchased word sequence set 84. Avariety of secure methods for processing payment are known in the art,and any one may be substituted without departing from the scope of thepresent disclosure.

From the word sequence set selection screen 78, a store icon 136 may beinvoked to show the available word sequence sets 84 available forpurchase. More particularly, as shown in FIG. 11 a purchasing or storescreen 138 is generated in the user interface 38, and likewise includesanother listing 140 of descriptors 144 corresponding to the moodrecharging characteristic values 86 of the respective word sequence sets84. In the illustrated example, there is a word sequence set 84 for“Confidence” per the descriptor 144 a, for “Happiness” per thedescriptor 144 b, and for “Energy” per the descriptor 144 c. Those wordsequence sets 84 already purchased and stored on the data processingapparatus are also included in the listing 140, distinguished by thebegin button 83. Those not yet purchased are set apart with a price tagbutton 146 that shows the offer price, and the invocation of which isoperative to begin the purchase process.

A more detailed description of a given word sequence set 84 may bepresented in a word sequence set description screen 148 as shown in FIG.12. Referring to the data structure diagram of FIG. 5, each wordsequence set 84 is understood to include a descriptor 150 that providesan overview of the goals thereof. While the word sequence set 84 may bepurchased directly from the listing 140 via the corresponding price tagbutton 146, purchasing from the word sequence set description screen 148is also possible by selecting a purchase button 152. Subsequent standardinteractivity common to in-application purchases conducted through theapplication distribution system 134 is contemplated, including variousconfirmation dialog boxes, and download progress meters.

The particulars shown herein are by way of example and for purposes ofillustrative discussion of the embodiments of the present disclosureonly and are presented in the cause of providing what is believed to bethe most useful and readily understood description of the principles andconceptual aspects. In this regard, no attempt is made to show detailsof the present invention with more particularity than is necessary, thedescription taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled inthe art how the several forms of the present invention may be embodiedin practice.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for shifting and recharging an emotionalstate of a user with word sequencing presented on a data processingapparatus with a display and an input, the method comprising the stepsof: receiving, from the user through the input of the data processingapparatus, a selection of a first word sequence set defined by a moodrecharging characteristic value, the first word sequence set including aplurality of words each with at least one corresponding definition;generating on the display with a first predefined typeface a first oneof the plurality of words in the selected first word sequence set;generating on the display with a second predefined typeface, while thefirst one of the plurality of words remains generated on the display, afirst one of the at least one corresponding definition of the first oneof the plurality of words in the selected first word sequence set for atime duration corresponding to a predefined cadence rate value; andprompting the user with a question related to the mood rechargingcharacteristic value and associated with the first word sequence set. 2.The method of claim 1, further comprising: receiving on the dataprocessing apparatus through the input a user-supplied answer to thequestion.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein prior to prompting the userwith the question, the method includes: generating on the display withthe second predefined typeface, while the first one of the plurality ofwords remains generated on the display, a second one of the at least onecorresponding definition of the first one of the plurality of words inthe selected first word sequence set for the time duration.
 4. Themethod of claim 1, wherein prior to prompting the user with thequestion, the method includes: clearing the display of the first one ofthe plurality of words in the selected first word sequence set;generating on the display with the first predefined typeface a secondone of the plurality of words in the selected first word sequence set;and generating on the display with the second predefined typeface, whilethe second one of the plurality of words remains generated on thedisplay, a first one of the at least one corresponding definition of thesecond one of the plurality of words in the selected first word sequenceset for the time duration.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein prior toprompting the user with the question, the method includes: generating onthe display with the second predefined typeface, while the second one ofthe plurality of words remains generated on the display, a second one ofthe at least one corresponding definition of the second one of theplurality of words in the selected first word sequence set for the timeduration.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the time duration is withina range of three to ten seconds.
 7. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising: receiving through the input a modification to thepredetermined cadence rate value; and updating the time durationaccording to the modification to the predetermined cadence rate value.8. The method of claim 1, wherein the first predefined typeface has afirst size and the second predefined typeface has a second sizedifferent from the first size.
 9. The method of claim 1, wherein thefirst predefined typeface has a first visual style and the secondpredefined typeface has a second visual style different from the firstvisual style.
 10. The method of claim 1, wherein the first one of theplurality of words in the selected first word sequence set is generatedon the display of the data processing apparatus in response to a presettime notification.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein the first one ofthe plurality of words in the selected first word sequence set isgenerated on the display of the data processing apparatus in response toa geographic notification based upon a location value detected by thedata processing apparatus being within a predefined distance of atrigger location.
 12. The method of claim 1, wherein the first wordsequence set is stored on the data processing apparatus.
 13. The methodof claim 12, further comprising: querying a remote server for updates tothe first word sequence set; and receiving the queried updates to thefirst word sequence set on the data processing apparatus.
 14. The methodof claim 13, wherein the updates include at least one update definitionfor a one of the words in the first word sequence set.
 15. The method ofclaim 14, further comprising: overwriting a selected one of thedefinitions of the one of the words in the first word sequence setstored on the data processing apparatus with the corresponding receivedupdate definition.
 16. The method of claim 14, further comprising:adding the received update definition to the one of the words in thefirst word sequence set stored on the data processing apparatus.
 17. Themethod of claim 13, wherein the updates include a new word and at leastone corresponding new definition therefor.
 18. The method of claim 17,further comprising: adding the received new word and the at least onenew definition to the first word sequence set stored on the dataprocessing apparatus.
 19. The method of claim 1, further comprising:transmitting to a remote server, a word sequence set purchase requestincluding a payment authorization; receiving a second word sequence setfrom the remote server; and storing the second word sequence on the dataprocessing apparatus.
 20. The method of claim 1, wherein the dataprocessing apparatus is a smart phone.
 21. A non-transitory computerreadable medium having computer-executable instructions for performing amethod for shifting and recharging an emotional state of a user withword sequencing presented on a computer with a display and an input, themethod comprising the steps of: receiving, from the user through theinput of the computer, a selection of a first word sequence set definedby a mood recharging characteristic value, the first word sequence setincluding a plurality of words each with at least one correspondingdefinition; generating on the display with a first predefined typeface afirst one of the plurality of words in the selected first word sequenceset; generating on the display with a second predefined typeface, whilethe first one of the plurality of words remains generated on thedisplay, a first one of the at least one corresponding definition of thefirst one of the plurality of words in the selected first word sequenceset for a time duration corresponding to a predefined cadence ratevalue; prompting the user with a question related to the mood rechargingcharacteristic value and associated with the first word sequence set;and receiving on the data processing apparatus through the input auser-supplied answer to the question.